As an adult learner, the thought of participating in an education abroad program may be equal parts exciting and daunting - the chance to explore the world and learn from new cultures can be beneficial, but you may also be conscious of your responsibilities back at home. There are ways to find a balance there, and the Education Abroad Office is dedicated to addressing any concerns you have and to supporting you throughout your international education journey.
Questions to consider:
- What type of education abroad program would align best with my personal circumstances? Am I able to commit to a full semester abroad, or would it be more manageable for me to choose a shorter-term program?
- If I have a spouse and/or children, will they be able to accompany me abroad? What arrangements might I need to make in advance? Will there be additional costs?
- If I work in addition to my schooling at home, how will I manage that commitment while abroad? Is a leave of absence feasible?
- How comfortable am I with interacting with younger peers for the duration of my program?
- Am I able to request not to have a roommate in my program housing if I'd feel more comfortable that way?
- Is there a significant number of adult learners in my host country? How might I be perceived by the local people?
- How can I foster friendships with people my age in my host country?
- What specific skills do I aim to build during my time abroad, and how do these align with my academic, personal, and/or professional objectives?
- What resources exist on-site to support me as I adjust to this new environment?
Tips from the Education Abroad Office:
- Consider which program is best for you: If longer-term programs would conflict with your family and/or work commitments, consider selecting a short-term program like an embedded program. These are programs for which the course is primarily taught at a Penn State campus in the US, and then there is a travel component over an academic break (fall, winter, spring) to explore the course content abroad.
- Embrace new experiences: Seek out opportunities to integrate with your peers, avoiding isolation. Remember that much of your perspective has been shaped by experiences within your own culture, so prepare for differences that may challenge you.
- Find support and community: Consider connecting with other adult learners who have participated in education abroad programs to hear their insights. While abroad, try to find people your age to bond with in the local community.
- Plan your life at home for your absence: Before departing, make sure that you've made the necessary preparations at home for your time abroad. This may include sorting out finances, arranging for additional support for your children, confirm your leave with your employer, etc.
Resources:
As an adult learner, the thought of participating in an education abroad program may be equal parts exciting and daunting - the chance to explore the world and learn from new cultures can be beneficial, but you may also be conscious of your responsibilities back at home. There are ways to find a balance there, and the Education Abroad Office is dedicated to addressing any concerns you have and to supporting you throughout your international education journey.
Questions to consider:
- What type of education abroad program would align best with my personal circumstances? Am I able to commit to a full semester abroad, or would it be more manageable for me to choose a shorter-term program?
- If I have a spouse and/or children, will they be able to accompany me abroad? What arrangements might I need to make in advance? Will there be additional costs?
- If I work in addition to my schooling at home, how will I manage that commitment while abroad? Is a leave of absence feasible?
- How comfortable am I with interacting with younger peers for the duration of my program?
- Am I able to request not to have a roommate in my program housing if I'd feel more comfortable that way?
- Is there a significant number of adult learners in my host country? How might I be perceived by the local people?
- How can I foster friendships with people my age in my host country?
- What specific skills do I aim to build during my time abroad, and how do these align with my academic, personal, and/or professional objectives?
- What resources exist on-site to support me as I adjust to this new environment?
Tips from the Education Abroad Office:
- Consider which program is best for you: If longer-term programs would conflict with your family and/or work commitments, consider selecting a short-term program like an embedded program. These are programs for which the course is primarily taught at a Penn State campus in the US, and then there is a travel component over an academic break (fall, winter, spring) to explore the course content abroad.
- Embrace new experiences: Seek out opportunities to integrate with your peers, avoiding isolation. Remember that much of your perspective has been shaped by experiences within your own culture, so prepare for differences that may challenge you.
- Find support and community: Consider connecting with other adult learners who have participated in education abroad programs to hear their insights. While abroad, try to find people your age to bond with in the local community.
- Plan your life at home for your absence: Before departing, make sure that you've made the necessary preparations at home for your time abroad. This may include sorting out finances, arranging for additional support for your children, confirm your leave with your employer, etc.
Resources:
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